<p>When <a href="https://whatoplay.com/news/death-stranding-for-pc-gets-june-release-date/">Death Stranding was announced for PC</a>, it was teased that there would be a photo mode for the game, something that wasn’t in <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/death-stranding/" title="Death Stranding PlayStation 4">PS4 version</a>. The great news is, fans will now be able to take high-res shots of Sam Bridges in Hideo Kojima’s strange new world.</p>

As per Kojima on his official <a href="https://twitter.com/HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN/status/1242416709153112064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1242416709153112064&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fgamerant.com%2Fdeath-stranding-photo-mode-ps4%2F">Twitter</a>:

<img src="https://cdn2.whatoplay.com/news/content/24+-+Hideo+Kojima+Post%2C+Death+Stranding.jpg" alt="Kojima announces Photo Mode for Death Stranding PC">

<div class="direct-quote">Today’s good news!

DEATH STRANDING PC ver. Photo Mode will be also implemented for PS4 ver. as many of you requested! We are doing the final checks right now and trying to make it happen at the end of this month’s update. Photo Mode during your journey and delivery</div>

<p>Seeing that one of the main hooks of <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/death-stranding/">Death Stranding</a> is its unique visuals, it was curious that the PS4 version didn’t come with a photo mode. At this point, being able to pause the game and take photos is becoming a required feature for <a href="https://whatoplay.com/videos/soon-ps4-aaa-2020/" title="15 Upcoming Triple-A PS4 Games of 2020">Triple A games</a>; <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/marvels-spider-man/">Spider-Man</a> had it, and so did <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/god-of-war/">God of War</a>, <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/horizon-zero-dawn/">Horizon Zero Dawn</a>, and <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/uncharted-4-a-thiefs-end/">Uncharted 4</a>.</p>

<p>While reviews weren’t stellar for Death Stranding, the game remains to be something that is frequently buzzed about online. Despite being an endless fetch quest, the game admittedly still has some unique visuals, and Kojima himself still manages to find new ways to innovate the gameplay.</p>

<p>Death Stranding is currently available for PS4, but comes to PC on June 22. The photo mode update is expected to arrive in the end of the month.</p>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l9W7dDQUcBo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

PS4 Fans will now be able to take high-res shots of Sam Bridges in Hideo Kojima’s strange new world.


Photo Mode Coming to Death Stranding PS4

<p><a href="https://whatoplay.com/switch/marvel-ultimate-alliance-3-the-black-order/">Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order</a> is gearing up for the release of their final DLC with Shadow of Doom, and even if you don’t want to buy the expansion, you can actually get your hands on some great new skins absolutely free.</p>

<p>Check them out:</p>

<img src="https://cdn2.whatoplay.com/news/content/1.jpg" alt="Shadow of Doom Free Costumes for Daredevil, Iron Fist, Luke Cage, Elektra and Deadpool">

<img src="https://cdn2.whatoplay.com/news/content/2.jpg" alt="Shadow of Doom Free Costumes for Hawkeye, Black Widow, Falcon, Wasp and Crystal">

<img src="https://cdn2.whatoplay.com/news/content/Untitled-3.jpg" alt="Shadow of Doom Free Costumes for Starlord, Rocket and Groot, Drax, Gamore and Thanos">

<img src="https://cdn2.whatoplay.com/news/content/4.jpg" alt="Shadow of Doom Free Costumes for Iceman, Cable, Jean Grey, and Gambit">


<p>While you get a lot of classic skins like with heroes like Jean Grey and Luke Cage, you also have some great iconic skins for other comic runs like Daredevil from Man without Fear or Gambit from Age of Apocalypse. Personally, I like the appearance of the Guardians of the Galaxy from their most popular comic run from Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning; you just have to love Groot in costume.</p>

<p>Seeing that Doom was the main villain of the first <a href="https://whatoplay.com/xbox-360/marvel-ultimate-alliance/">Ultimate Alliance</a> game, it would be interesting to see how they bring him back for this third one. With Thanos now gone, Marvel is said to be hyping up Doom to be the next villain of Marvel. Let’s hope this version doesn’t disappoint.</p>

<p>Shadow of Doom comes out on March 25, but these free skins are said to come to the game a day before on the 25th.</p>

<div class="direct-quote">The MARVEL ULTIMATE ALLIANCE series returns for the first time in 10 years—with a new action RPG—exclusively on the Nintendo Switch™ system! Assemble your ultimate team of Marvel Super Heroes from a huge cast including the Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy, the X-Men, and more! Team up with friends to prevent galactic devastation at the hands of the mad cosmic tyrant Thanos and his ruthless warmasters, The Black Order.</div>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vbJ7PHxkTe4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p><a href="https://whatoplay.com/switch/marvel-ultimate-alliance-3-the-black-order/" title="Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 on Nintendo Switch">Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3</a> is now playable for the Nintendo Switch.
</p>

Even if you don’t want to buy Shadow of Doom, you can actually get your hands on some great new skins absolutely free.


Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 Reveals Free DLC Skins

<p>Battlefront fans were ecstatic when <a href="https://whatoplay.com/news/scarif-coming-to-star-wars-battlefront-ii/">it was announced that Scarif was finally coming</a> to <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/star-wars-battlefront-ii/">Battlefront II</a>, but it looks like the update has been delayed thanks to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>As per the official update on <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/StarWarsBattlefront/comments/fnqkse/quick_update_on_the_battle_on_scarif/">Reddit</a>, the update has been moved from the end of March to the middle of April. The <a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/ea-dice/">DICE studio </a>had started to transition into a ‘work-from-home’ operation, and this has lead to the delay of the update. No specific release date has been released, but at least we know that it comes out in the middle of next month and not toward the end.</p>

<p>Though it’s a bummer having to wait for the update for a little longer, the consolation is that we’re going to be getting some new skins for heroes and villains. We don’t know exactly what’s coming, but a lot are hoping that we finally get the Damaged Vader skin as well as a skin for Chewie where he has C-3PO strapped to his back. And though I’m not a fan of The Rise of Skywalker, Palpatine’s appearance with the red inner robe would be a great skin for the game.</p>

<p>With the cirus keeping everyone inside, it now feels like we’re needing video games more than ever. Let’s just be thankful that DICE is only delayed by a few weeks and not months like other releases.</p>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/J48gd0GZGWk" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p>Star Wars Battlefront II is now playable on <a href="https://whatoplay.com/xbox-one/star-wars-battlefront-ii/" title="Star Wars Battlefront II on Xbox One">Xbox One</a>, <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/star-wars-battlefront-ii/" title="Star Wars Battlefront II on PC">PC</a>, and <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/star-wars-battlefront-ii/" title="Star Wars Battlefront on PlayStation 4">PlayStation 4</a>.</p>

 It looks like the Scarif update has been delayed thanks to the ongoing Coronavirus Pandemic.

Star Wars Battlefront II’s Scarif Update Delayed to April

<p>With <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/half-life-alyx/">Half-life: Alyx’s impressive playscore of 9.0</a> marks a new era in <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/vr/" title="PC VR games">VR gaming</a> and what better way to usher it in with a new VR Headset.  In collaboration with Valve and Microsoft, HP dropped a bomb on us today with the timely announcement of the <strong>Reverb G2</strong>.</p>

<p>Though we are mostly left to wonder what the nuances of this headset are, the trailer certainly puts an emphasis on comfort and compatibility with its tease of no compromises. </p>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cz9wHbOOjpw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>


<p><strong>“A new standard in VR.”</strong> It does sound like the collaborating trio is pulling no punches for this line of VR headsets and it will come to no surprise if the Reverb G2 will borrow the best features from the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/valve-index/">Valve Index</a> and Utilize Windows Mixed reality to a maximum. It would be safe to assume that the G2 will use the windows mixed reality tracking cameras instead of having external tracking beacons that could be a pain to set up and manage.</p>

<p>While the first Reverb wasn’t groundbreaking, it did boast a proud and crystal clear 2160x2160 pixels per eye and its likely HP will be pushing for better visual integrity again alongside a sleeker overall design.</p>

<figure>
	<img src="https://cdn2.whatoplay.com/news/content/reverb.jpg" alt="HP Reverb G2">
</figure>

<p>Valve’s Index is certainly a capable machine but with its $1000 dollar price point, other options like the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/htc-vive/">HTC Vive</a>, <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/oculus-rift/">Oculus Quest and Oculus Rift</a> are more attractive to anyone that isn’t a hardcore VR enthusiast. The HP Reverb G2 could potentially offer the best value for money on the market and could be a great access point for anyone who would want to begin there journey in VR gaming.</p>

In collaboration with Valve and Microsoft, HP dropped a bomb on us today with the timely announcement of the Reverb G2

Reverb G2: HP's  New VR Headset Made With The Help of Microsoft and Valve

<p>Starting today, the characters of Black Jack, the popular <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Jack_(manga)">manga by Osama Tezuka</a>, joins <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ios/crazy-defense-heroes/">Crazy Defense Heroes</a> in a limited crossover that will run from March 23rd to April 12th, 2020.</p>

<img src="https://cdn2.whatoplay.com/news/content/Crazy-Defense-Heroes.jpg" alt="Black Jack manga characters join Crazy Defense Heroes game in limited time crossover">

<p>The event, called the Black Jack Invasion, celebrates the game's two-year anniversary and will feature 16 new levels of varying difficulties, all of which are inspired by the original Black Jack manga.</p>

<p>Here's the summary:</p>

<div class="direct-quote">Black Jack’s rival Doctor Kiriko has turned residents into undead zombies using an unknown poison, and players must help Black Jack and Pinoko to defeat Kiriko and save precious lives. A player avatar of level 6 or higher is required to participate in the special event.</div>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_ku2tue9-Ys" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p>During the event, there will be special Black Jack chests you can purchase that will give you a chance to win the themed cards. These are the Black Jack hero card, and the Pinoko and the Kiriko tower cards, all of which you can keep after the event.</p> 
 
<p><strong>Crazy Defense Heroes</strong> is a <a href="https://whatoplay.com/android/tower-defense/" title="Tower Defense Games on Android">tower defense</a> and collectible card game currently available on <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ios/crazy-defense-heroes/" title="Crazy Defense Heroes for iPhone and iPad">iOS</a> and <a href="https://whatoplay.com/android/crazy-defense-heroes/" title="Crazy Defense Heroes for Android">Android</a> platforms.</p>

Fans of Osamu Tezuka's popular manga will be delighted to see their favorites partaking in Crazy Defense Heroes' tower defense action

Black Jack joins Crazy Defense Heroes in a limited-time crossover event

<p>Back in 2018, <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/overwatch/">Overwatch</a>’s McCree short had introduced us to Echo. It’s been 2 years later, and this curious omnic is finally going to be a playable character in the game.</p>

<p>Check out her origin story:</p>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WeKUX6a5Nws" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p>Introducing Echo. An evolutionary robot programmed with a rapidly adapting artificial intelligence, Echo represents the cutting edge of technology.</p>

<p>When it comes to lore, Echo is a robot built by Overwatch founding member Dr. Mina Liao. Echo’s personality is actually based on Liao herself, and her ultimate in the game allows her to mimic enemy heroes. What’s more, when she does “Duplicate”, the ultimate charge builds up 6.5 times faster than normal, so Echo can perform her target’s ultimate in a few seconds.</p>

<p>Here’s the gameplay (via Your Overwatch):</p>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ebkzgr3l2QQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p>For a more in-depth look at the character, you can also check out the update video with Jeff Kaplan:</p>

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PmXNkp96g-Q" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p>It’s worth noting that the devs are going to be focusing on <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/overwatch-2/">Overwatch 2</a> once Echo comes out, so it could be a while before we get a new face to the game. Either way, it’s going to be great to finally get a chance to play a character that’s been hyped up since 2018.</p>

<p>We don’t have a solid release date for Echo yet, but seeing as heroes usually come to the game a month after the initial announcement, we should get her sometime in April. Then again with COVID-19 slowing things down, it’s possible that Echo could be coming to the game in May, but that’s just my guess.</p>

<p>For now, you can play Overwatch on <a href="https://whatoplay.com/xbox-one/overwatch/" title="Overwatch for Xbox One">Xbox One</a>, <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/overwatch/" title="Overwatch for PlayStation 4">PS4</a>, <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/overwatch/" title="Overwatch for PC">PC</a>, and <a href="https://whatoplay.com/switch/overwatchr-legendary-edition/" title="Overwatch for Nintendo Switch">Nintendo Switch</a>.</p>

<h2>Related News</h2>

<ul>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwatch-2021-anniversary">Overwatch Launches 2021 Anniversary Event</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/jeff-kaplan">Overwatch Director Jeff Kaplan Leaves Blizzard After 19 Years</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwatch-kanezaka-challenge">Overwatch Launches Kanezaka Challenge with New Hanzo Skin</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwatch-winter-wonderland-2020">Overwatch Announces Winter Wonderland 2020</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwathch-halloween-2020">Overwatch Teases New Skins for Halloween Terror 2020</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwatch-summer-2020">Overwatch Officially Kicks Off Summer Games 2020</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwatch-maestro-live">Overwatch’s Maestro Challenge is Now Live!</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwatch-4th-anniversary">The Overwatch Anniversary Event is Live!</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/post/overwatch-next-hero-echo-arrives-tomorrow">Overwatch’s Next Hero Echo Arrives Tomorrow!</a></li>
</ul>


Overwatch’s McCree short had introduced us to Echo. 2 years later, this curious omnic is finally going to be a playable character in the game.


Watch Origin and Gameplay for Overwatch’s Next Hero, Echo

<p>To see the full ranking, visit our list of the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/best/jrpg/" title="JRPG PC">best Japanese RPGs for PC</a>.</p>

<h2>10. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/final-fantasy-xii-the-zodiac-age/">Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age</a></h2>

<p><a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/square-enix/">Square Enix</a> is home to many memorable JRPGs. With Final Fantasy VII Remake’s release drawing close, the rest of the FF titles don’t get enough praise. </p>

<p>XII’s massive shift to real-time from the usual traditional turn-based FF combat opened new doors for the future of the series. Players are no longer constrained by waiting for their turn and stressing about random encounters. </p>

<p>In The Zodiac Age, it further improved the original’s gameplay by introducing the International Zodiac System. An overhaul which enables players to customize their favorite characters’ Zodiac Signs and change their Jobs as they see it. Not only that, players can change between characters on the fly.</p>  

<p>In this definitive version of the XII experience, players can enjoy Vaan and his friends’ journey once more, without the clunky combat and a few upgrades. However, the story remains the same. It receives a playscore of 8.35 </p>

<h2>9. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/monster-hunter-world/">Monster Hunter: World</a></h2>

<p><a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/capcom/">CAPCOM</a>’s Monster Hunter doesn’t really fit in the JRPG scene. It has no long-winded storyline or any quirky characters as party members. Instead, it takes lowly hunters into a boss-rush slash heavy grindfest that constantly pushes you to upgrade your weapons and equipment to its full potential.</p>

<p>What separates Monster Hunter from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/jrpg/" title="List of all JRPGs on PC">most JRPGs</a> is its action-oriented focus. You’ll be spending most of your time hunting monsters and wearing their skins as armor. Sounds morbid, yeah, but that’s how the franchise worked for almost a decade. </p>

<p>In World, the massive amount of content is unlike any Monster Hunter game ever released. More monsters, new worlds and not to mention the recent <a href="">Iceborne expansion</a> that almost felt like a whole new game. It’s one of CAPCOMs strongest achievement of last year and it keeps getting more content in the months to come. A playscore of 8.36 </p>

<h2>8. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/valkyria-chronicles-4/">Valkyria Chronicles 4</a></h2>

<p>JRPGs grounded on reality are always welcome. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/sega/">SEGA</a>’s animated take on the tactics and tragedies of war. The fourth main entry to their strategy RPG series. Building their legacy out of tactical freedom of their gameplay, Valkyria Chronicles 4 doesn't stray too far from the spirit of their first game. </p>

<p>A return to roots with new characters and the same cel-shaded graphics in a brand new engine, its small changes bring in just enough elements to make the game like new.</p>

<p>In this sequel, it refines the details of its addictive turn-based combat, while staying true to its creative and mature storytelling. It receives a playscore of 8.37</p>


<h2>7. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/zwei-the-ilvard-insurrection/">Zwei: The Ilvard Insurrection</a></h2>

<p><a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/nihon-falcom-corporation/">Nihon Falcom</a>’s steampunk-ish JRPG takes you high into the skies. After suffering from a mysterious plane crash, get lost into its aerial paradise where magic and technology go hand in hand together. </p>

<p>The Ilvard Insurrection lets players control two unlikely characters. Ragna, the treasure hunter and Alwen, the vampire princess. Together they go on a typical JRPG adventure fulfilling quests and meeting strange residents in this kingdom of Ilvard. </p>

<p>Also known as Zwei II, this PC release was greatly expanded from its Japanese version. Adding English voice acting that breathes new life into the story. The game’s unique food-based mechanic also offers more room for replay value aside from the monster slaying grind. </p>

<p>It’s league’s better than the first Zwei title and deserves more attention to the JRPG scene. A playscore of 8.43</p>


<h2>6. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/tales-of-berseria/">Tales Of Berseria</a></h2>

<p>It’s not a JRPG list without one of <a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/bandai-namco-studios/">Bandai Namco</a>’s long-running Tales games. Since 1995, the Tales series continue to push the limits of their storytelling and combat. Each release builds upon the previous installment’s shortcomings and makes it better.</p>

<p>In Tales of Berseria, follow a band of heroes in a Kingdom corrupted by demonic disease. It’s the sixteenth entry to the ever growing Tales series and it serves as a prequel to Zestiria.</p>

<p>It’s still an RPG set in a third-person perspective. It still shares the same combat like most of the previous Tales titles, although with a little bit of modern tweaking. Its signature Linear Motion Battle System presents a dazzling array of fast-paced combat with every enemy encounter. It’s upcoming Tales of Arise will further improve the gameplay, story and world-building like never before. Berseria receives a playscore of 8.55 </p>

<h2>5. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/ni-no-kuni-wrath-of-the-white-witch-remastered/">Ni No Kuni: Wrath Of The Witch Remastered</a></h2>

<p>Straight from the desks of renowned Studio Ghibli animators, Level-5’s wholesome fantasy adventure presents nothing but charm and color to the overgrown palette of grim JRPGs.</p> 

<p>This Remastered version of the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps3/ni-no-kuni/">2013 original</a> feels new, yet familiar. Explore the magical worlds with Oliver and his friends in High Definition. Its quality is now on par with its sequel, Revenant Kingdom. However, as a mere Remaster, this version has no added content aside from its improved visuals. </p>
<p>
It was hailed as one of the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps3/best/jrpg">best JRPGs on the PlayStation 3</a>. It was praised for its cheerful storytelling, vibrant atmosphere and its fantastic soundtrack by Joe Hisaishi himself. It’s the kind of game for some sweet and temporary escapism. A playscore of 8.59 </p>

<h2>4. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/the-legend-of-heroes-trails-of-cold-steel-ii/">The Legend Of Heroes: Trails Of Cold Steel II</a></h2>

<p>Nihom Falcom’s beloved The Legend of Heroes is a universe in its own right. Originally from the PlayStation Vita and PlayStation 3, this JRPG continues to embrace the signature turn-based battles the genre was known for.</p>

<p>As a direct sequel to the original Trails of Cold Steel, it begins one month after its ending. It takes players once again into the shoes of Rean Schwarzer and his adventures in the middle of a crossfire between a gripping civil war. </p>

<p>Unlike the first game and <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/the-legend-of-heroes-trails-of-cold-steel-iii/">Cold Steel III</a>, the main character doesn’t succumb to attending military classes. Instead, it takes players into a traditional ‘traveling around the world’ journey with a cast of memorable characters. After all, it’s a JRPG and what’s not to love about adventures? A playscore of 8.59
</p>


<h2>3. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/the-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-the-3rd/">The Legend Of Heroes: Trails In The Sky 3rd</a></h2>

<p>Normally, we’d separate similar series in our rankings, but Nihom Falcom’s The Legend of Heroes series has two different stories set in one universe. Each veering away from its main premise. Just like Final Fantasy, every Legend of Heroes has a different character to play and a whole new chapter to uncover. </p>

<p>In Trails In The Sky 3rd, it takes place waaaay before Cold Steel and it involves the series’ iconic Septian Priest, Kevin Graham, in his quest to recover a mysterious artifact hidden in the world. It takes place after the events of the Second Chapter’s Estelle and Joshua. </p>

<p>The turn-based gameplay is still similar to its predecessors, with the addition of a few extra elements in combat. But combat isn’t Trails in the Sky’s strongest aspect, it’s in its characters and story. Fans of the series are expected to meet a few returning heroes and villains from the previous entries. A playscore of 8.59</p>

<h2>2. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/dragon-questr-xi-echoes-of-an-elusive-age/">Dragon Quest XI: Echoes Of An Elusive Age</a></h2>

<p>Square Enix’s latest Dragon Quest release was considered as the best of the series yet and it was one of the strongest contenders for <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/best/2019/" title="best PC games of the year 2019">Game of the Year</a> last year. XI excels with its fantastic presentation of living the JRPG fantasy. </p>

<p>Save the world of Erdrea and take on the role of the brave Hero as you explore this magical world full of monsters to slay and secrets to discover. For added gimmick, players can switch between 2D and 3D visuals on the fly before any combat encounter. </p>

<p>It was mostly celebrated for its heartwarming story and its overwhelming amount of memorable characters. Unlike the Definitive Edition, the PC version lacks a few bonus content that adds unique scenarios for your party members. Nonetheless, it’s still an adventure worth taking. It has a playscore of a 8.73 </p>

<h2>1. <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/dragon-quest-builderstm-2/">Dragon Quest Builders 2</a></h2>

<p>The third and final Square Enix title on this list. Square’s open-world JRPG has a lot in store for die-hard sandbox fans and JRPG veterans. It’s the ideal platform for players who love <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/minecraft/">Minecraft</a>, but want more of that choose-your-own-adventure type of journey. </p>

<p>It’s a sequel to 2016’s <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/dragon-quest-heroes-2/">Dragon Quest</a> spin-off which takes us into a whole new Dragon Quest universe where we rebuild it’s fallen world after an apocalypse. </p>

<p>This sequel features the addition of a few interesting biomes and fancy gameplay improvements that wouldn’t be intimidating for new and young players. Despite it being a sandbox game with unlimited possibilities, it’s still a JRPG. You build your character, customize him from top to bottom and let your hero explore a massive open world. It has a playscore of 8.74</p>



Top 10 PC JRPGs of the Last Three Years (2017, 2018, 2019)

<p>Games with male leads are a dime a dozen so in this video, we’re showcasing notable titles with strong female characters. From an archaeologist to an empress-turned-assassin, here are the 10 Best Games with Female Leads, arranged by playscore.</p>


<h2>10. Emily from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/dishonored-2/" title="Dishonored 2 PC Game Reviews">Dishonored 2</a></h2>


<p>Emily could've just as well stuck to being the damsel in distress slash moral compass in Corvo Attano's world of assassin vengeance. But, <a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/arkane-studios/">Arkane Studios</a> showed us that they don't take criticism lightly. After being panned for their portrayal of women, or lack thereof, they showed us all, turning their sequel into a showcase of exactly what the former Empress of the Isles could do. </p>

<p>Through it we see Emily Kaldwin grow from the young woman she was in the first game: taking up the throne, training under Corvo Attano, and then putting it all to practice in her fight to take back the throne. </p>

<p>While we ultimately have the choice on how much chaos we bring, her journey still offers a unique perspective--basically growing out of her pretty, privileged background, and opening her eyes to the bigger picture of becoming the Queen her people deserves. </p>

<p>Emily isn't the first playable character in videogame history, but she remains a shining example for the kind of diversity in games. Dishonored 2 gets a playscore of 8.47 on the PC, 8.85 on the PS4, and 8.46 on the Xbox One.</p>


<h2>9. Anicia from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/a-plague-tale-innocence/" title="A Plague Tale Innocence on PC">A Plague Tale: Innocence</a></h2>

<p>Clearly, badassery isn't the only thing that makes a woman.</p>

<p>While there’s a bit of magic in the sad world of plague tale innocence, anicia brings her own brand of luminosity in her role as big sister to the young, powerful, yet also vulnerable character Hugo. </p>

<p><a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/asobo-studio/">Asobo Studios</a> is known for their adaptation of movies into games and even though this is a new IP, their expertise in cinematic themes continues on, especially in how they handled the two main characters’ complex story. </p>

<p>Anicia isn’t the center of the story. She’s not the one imbued with magical mystery, but it’s exactly her humanity that makes her the hero of the story. Her nurturing and protective instincts drive to her keep forward, attempting to survive the circumstances and motivating us to do the same. </p>

<p>A Plague Tale Innocence gets a playscore of 8.67 on the PS4, 8.64 on the PC, and 8.50 on the Xbox One
</p>

<h2>8. Clementine from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/the-walking-dead-collection-the-telltale-series/" title="The Walking Dead Collection A Telltale Series PS4">The Walking Dead Collection - The Telltale Series</a></h2>

<p>Pretty much the collective little sister for fans of the Walking Dead series, Telltale brought us indescribable joy with Clementine’s rise from vulnerable child into a whole person in her own right</p>

<p>The Walking Dead Collection spans all four seasons of the popular Telltale adaptation, starting from the first in 2012. And each one is important in telling the tale of Clementine’s journey from the protected under Lee, to the hardy protector to Alvin Jr. </p>

<p>The post-apocalypse is unforgiving for everybody, but with her, we witnessed it take away her innocence bit by bit. Through it all, she remained a shining beacon of hope, veering away from anger and disillusionment, and instead walking the path of growth and maturity. 
</p>
<p>A young, developed character--who didn’t suffer the pitfalls of sexualization-- Clementine’s was a breakthrough videogame representation and  it’s one you can witness yourself on the PS4, with a playscore of 8.62.
</p>


<h2>7. 2B from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/nier-automata/" title="Nier Automata for PlayStation 4">NieR: Automata</a></h2>


<p>You don’t look at a character like 2B and think she’s the icon of empowerment. </p>

<p>Yoko Taro pretty much admitted that the way the character looks in-game is because, well, He Just Likes Girls.  Female empowerment was not at the heart of 2B’s conception, but, well, she IS technically a girl, albeit a robot one, who just happens to have a sexy butt and a pair of heels. </p>

<p>Looks aside, 2B’s journey is an emotional one. Despite starting out as a cold, unfeeling robot, there’s a heart within her--one that’s continually aching for escape from her cruel programming. Nier is at its core an existentialist adventure, and 2B is front and center: growing out of her cold shell, learning how to communicate, how to be kind, and even how to love. </p>

<p>Sure, she’s still the ultimate fan service, but apart from the combat impracticality, she’s hella strong and she’s definitely working it. 
3++. NieR: Automata receives playscores of 8.96 on the Xbox One, 8.94 on the PS4, and 8.20 on the PC.
</p>


<h2>6. Senua from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/hellblade-senuas-sacrifice/" title="Hellblade for PC Reviews">Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice</a></h2>


<p>Even while they felt like market demands for female leads were low, Team Ninja still stuck with it--all to bring justice to an idea that Senua plays a central part in. Although she’s based on a Celtic goddess and created to capture the spirit of strong Celtic woman’s spirit, Senua’s power as a female lead comes directly from her vulnerability. 
</p>

<p>Built into her story are struggles with a necrotic arm, and most especially, psychosis. Living in Senua’s shoes isn’t just a look through a fascinating culture, it’s also a look into life with mental illness--a struggle that she fights through bravely, along with all the dangers that come her way. </p>
<p>Senua’s is an important story to tell, and with Team Ninja’s efforts, it’s also an amazing experience. Appearing on Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, it gets playscores of 8.88 on the PS4, 8.63 on the PC, and 8.57 on the Xbox One</p>


<h2>5. Bayonetta from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/bayonetta/" title="Bayonetta for PS4">Bayonetta</a> and <a href="https://whatoplay.com/switch/bayonetta-2/" title="Bayonetta 2 Switch Reviews">Bayonetta 2</a></h2>


<p>If there’s one thing you can’t blame a woman for, it’s being sexy af and owning it every step of the way. </p>

<p>Since her first appearance in 2009, Bayonetta has been captivating audiences from one console generation to the next, and she’s even found herself exclusively on <a href="https://whatoplay.com/switch/" title="List of all Switch games">Nintendo’s latest platform</a>.</p> 

<p>Being provocative may be ingrained into her DNA, but even with seductive charm and on the nose moves like the Umbral climax, Bayonetta is never trashy. She’s just one classy witch who’s just out to eviscerate every single angel in her way. </p>

<p>She knows what she’s got and flaunting it. And that’s what makes her such a strong candidate for powerful female leads. While she might be present in the fantasies of some men, what she could be for women is on another level. </p>

<p>Unlike the meek, docile characters that some people feel women should be, she becomes THE power fantasy to aspire to--whipping out her moves, and working out her intimidating aura on anyone--whether man, woman, or monster. </p>

<p>Being in Bayonetta’s heels will definitely feel good, and you can experience it yourself, with Bayonetta on the PC with a playscore of 8.85, and the Switch Collection Bayonetta + Bayonetta 2 with a playscore 8.81</p>


<h2>4. Madeline from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/celeste/" title="Celeste for PC">Celeste</a></h2>

<p>Our fledgling mountain climber looks young but she’s definitely all woman</p>. 

<p>Surrounded by a candy-colored palette and delivered with exquisite pixel detail, you wouldn’t expect much emotion from Madeline’s trek to the top of Mount Celeste. If we learned anything from Ori and the Blind Forest though, it’s that simple, sidescrolling platformers could deliver just as much heartbreak as any other game. </p>

<p>Crafted from the fabric as Hellblade, Madeline’s journey is one that teaches us a lot about the struggles of a troubled mind. We may not always be grappling through snowy cliffs and mossy mountain edges, but her grapples with anxiety and depression could easily strike a chord with the many who’ve been through the same.</p>

<p>We learn to overcome them--punishing platforming, disturbing thoughts, and all that-- together.But if there’s one thing she tells us, it’s that whatever we’re going through, we’re not alone.</p>

<p>Celeste receives a playscore of 9.19 on the PC, 8.91 on the PS4, 8.69 on the Switch, and 8.56 on the Xbox One</p>



<h2>3. Lara Croft from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/rise-of-the-tomb-raider/" title="Rise of the Tomb Raider for PC">Rise of the Tomb Raider</a></h2>


<p>Who could forget? As one of the first female characters to be at the helm of her own franchise, she’s regarded  as one of the great pioneers of our time. Lara Croft is a smart, agile, and gorgeous woman who could do action as well as the next man. We’ve known her since her pointy polygon days, but the changes really came with the reboot series. </p>

<p>Apart from shedding off the blocky look for a more realistic model, the character itself also evolved. She moves away from being a poster girl for unrealistic standards and into something a little more relatable. </p>

<p>Her origin story shows her pampered archeologist days to her accidental stumble into survivor mode. Adventure became her obsession, and we often see her difficulty with decisions. She’s more emotional, a lot less sure, and definitely a lot less sassy. But what’s clear is, Lara continues to be an icon to this day, and there’s more to her story yet. </p>

<p>Rise of the Tomb Raider gets the highest marks with playscores of 8.9 on the PS4, 8.86 on the PC, and 8.78 on the Xbox One.</p>


<h2>2. Aloy from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/horizon-zero-dawn/" title="Horizon Zero Dawn for PlayStation 4">Horizon Zero Dawn</a></h2>


<p>As delicious as it is to roam around in half futuristic half-primitive world of Guerrilla Games’ creation, at the heart of what makes it all great, is Aloy--a skilled hunter from a tribe with a cynical outlook on technology.  She makes the game, simply because of her refusal to live by the limiting perspective of the people around her, thus opening us up to the impressive beauty of her world. </p>

<p>A rebel spirit, she doesn’t always get along with everybody. But as a character, that only adds to her charm.  Aside from the fact that everybody wants to play the renegade with a biting wit, we also get to bear witness to her growth and maturity. </p>

<p>It takes a while but eventually she breaks down her walls, tries hard to get better, and eventually learns to empathize with other outcasts like herself. Before it releases on the PC, Horizon Zero Dawn gets a playscore of 9.11 on the PS4.</p>


<h2>1. Claire from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/resident-evil-2/" title="Resident Evil 2 for PC Game Reviews">Resident Evil 2</a></h2>


<p>Diving into the infected streets of Raccoon City, Claire’s is a tale that may be already familiar to the fans of the Resident Evil franchise, and, more importantly, only serves as one half of the whole narrative. Despite that, she still comes on strong. Throughout the game she shows off her strong willed-ness AND strength. As a relatively small 19 year old, she doesn’t have a problem slumming it with the bad guys, carrying her own in firefights and kicking zombie heads.</p>

<p>Other than that she also has her compassion and her smarts, teaming up with the young Sherry and infiltrating the Umbrella Corporation. Claire may be an underdog compared to the arguably more iconic Jill, but she deserves the spotlight, at least for now. </p>

<p>Resident Evil 2 is currently the highest rated Resident Evil title with playscores of 9.28 on the PS4, 9.20 on the PC. and 9.02 on the Xbox One.</p>


<h2>Honorable Mentions:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Chloe and Nadine from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/uncharted-the-lost-legacy/">Uncharted: Lost Legacy</a>, A standalone expansion that shows us the series is in good hands despite Nathan Drake's retirement. </li>
	<li>Kassandra from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/assassins-creed-odyssey/">Assassin's Creed: Odyssey</a>, The spartan equivalent in the AC's Greek expedition, capable of swinging swords and swinging both ways.</li>
	<li>Kat from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/gravity-rush-2/">Gravity Rush</a>, She defies gravity in the most stylish way in Bluepoint games' action adventure series</li>
	<li>Max from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/life-is-strange/">Life is Strange </a>>, High School's a lot harder in this episodic adventure, but Max makes it through with her own ways</li>
	<li>Aurora from <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/child-of-light/">Child of Light</a>, She may live in a storybook fantasy, her fight against the darkness has never been easy</li>
</ul>

<p>To discover more titles worth playing, visit the following all-time rankings:</p>
<ul>
	<li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/best/" title="Best PC games of all time">Best PC Games</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/best/" title="">Best PS4 Games</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/xbox-one/best/" title="">Best Xbox One Games</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/switch/best/" title="">Best Switch Games</a></li>
</ul>


Games with male leads are a dime a dozen so in this video, we’re showcasing notable titles with strong female characters. From an archaeologist to an empress-turned-assassin, here are the 10 Best Games with Female Leads, arranged by playscore.

Top 10 Games with Female Leads of the Last Five Years

<p>This isn’t the first time that <a href="https://whatoplay.com/search?keywords=Call%20of%20Duty">Call of Duty</a> has wowed the world but <a href="https://whatoplay.com/developers/infinity-ward/">Infinity ward</a> has definitely outdone its Battle royal predecessor, Blackout, whcih they introduced in <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/call-of-duty-black-ops-4/">Call of Duty: Black Ops 4</a></p> 

<p><a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/call-of-duty-warzone/">Call of Duty: Warzone</a> manages to emulate the Battle royale magic while keeping that Call of Duty feel. This fidelity is definitely welcome as it helps retain the intensity we’ve come to expect from the series.</p> 

<p>With the gulag and a healthy amount of contracts across the world, Infinity Ward clearly wanted to address some issues that are present in existing BR games.</p> 

<p>Nobody wants to spend 10-15 minutes scrounging for loot only to lose it within a few seconds which is why the streamlined inventory system and the generous loot distribution are great and it contributes to the frenetic pace of the game.</p>  

<p>The various sections of the map are well designed and intuitive. Combine that with the fact that you don’t have to worry about how much backpack space you have or what kind of armor you’re wearing and you get an easy to digest experience with superb and satisfying gunplay that is enjoyable by both casual and veteran players alike.</p>		

<div class="video-responsive">
	<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0E44DClsX5Q" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p>While Infinity Ward’s take on the very popular Battle Royale feels incredibly fresh, it’s not the only game mode Warzone has to offer.</p> 

<p>Plunder is a game mode where squads race to reach 1 million dollars by looting, completing contracts, and stealing from other players.  You’re immediately given access to all your loadouts and have infinite respawns,  the firefights get incredibly messy and the scramble for money ensues. </p> 

<p>No matter what game mode you’re gonna drop into, you are guaranteed to have a grand time. So what are you waiting for?</p> 

<p>Call of Duty: Warzone is ready to download on the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/pc/call-of-duty-warzone/">PC</a>, PS4, and <a href="https://whatoplay.com/xbox-one/call-of-duty-warzone/">Xbox One</a> right now.</p>

This isn’t the first time that Call of Duty has wowed the world but Infinity ward has definitely outdone its Battle royal predecessor, Blackout. 

Call of Duty: Warzone, Infinity Ward's hot drop

<p>Sony has decided to make their <a href="https://whatoplay.com/news/ps5-tech-specs/">big reveal for the PS5 today</a>, and fans have been expecting that this new console will be backwards compatible. Too bad because it looks like it won’t be able to play anything from the first PlayStation to <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps3/" title="List of all PlayStation 3 games">PS3</a>.</p>

<p>As per the official announcement with Mark Cerny, the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps5/" title="PlayStation 5 games list">PS5</a> will feature a system that will allow it to play games from the PS4. While it doesn’t seem like the console can play games from the first three iterations of the PlayStation, the new system in place sounds like it could be malleable. The issue is that it won’t be able to play older gens on launch—at least, that’s what I understand.</p>

<p>You can watch the full 1-hour presentation here:</p>

<div class="video-responsive">
  <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ph8LyNIT9sg" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>

<p>If anything, a lot of people aren’t too happy that backwards compatibility only goes back to the PS4. If it’s any consolation, PlayStation will make the <a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps4/best/" title="List of all the best PlayStation 4 games of all time">top 100 PS4 games</a> available to play when the PS5 comes out. Here I am just hoping that everyone’s PS library will carry over from the PS4 to the PS5, because I imagine it would be a huge pain if we had to buy all the old titles again just so we can play them on the next-gen console.</p>

<p>Oddly enough, this ‘big announcement’ didn’t come with a price, release date, or console reveal. I’m giving it a chance because of the Coronavirus Outbreak right now, but hopefully we get some more solid details in June.</p>

<p>The PS5 is expected to launch this winter.</p>

<h2>Related pages</h2>
<ul>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps5/best/">Best PlayStation 5 Games</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps5/upcoming/">Upcoming PS5 games</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps5/new/">New PS5 games</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://whatoplay.com/ps3/best/">Best PS3 games</a></li>
</ul>

Fans have been expecting the new console will be backwards compatible but it looks like it won’t be able to play anything from the first PlayStation to PS3.

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More

News

Latest news, page 138

Photo Mode Coming to Death Stranding PS4

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 Reveals Free DLC Skins

Star Wars Battlefront II’s Scarif Update Delayed to April

Reverb G2: HP's New VR Headset Made With The Help of Microsoft and Valve

Black Jack joins Crazy Defense Heroes in a limited-time crossover event

Watch Origin and Gameplay for Overwatch’s Next Hero, Echo

Top 10 PC JRPGs of the Last Three Years (2017, 2018, 2019)

Top 10 Games with Female Leads of the Last Five Years

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PS5’s Backwards Compatibility Only Applies to PS4 Games

Top rated since 2022